According to the 2012 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention, one person every 15 minutes dies from suicide in America. And for every one person that dies from suicide, another thirty attempt it. If we do the math, that means one person every 30 seconds in the US attempts to take their own life.

This is the kind of statistic that should wake us up to the tragic prevalence of suicide, though it may require a silent moment to sink in. Hopefully, it will also spur us, as people, to be more aware of each other and the struggles that our friends and loved ones might be facing.

“No matter where we live or what we do every day, each of us has a role in preventing suicide. Our actions can make a difference.” These are powerful words from Regina M. Benjamin, Surgeon General from 2009-13. If suicide is to be prevented, it will require an effort from each one of us.

The video below, using footage from a 1965 film, “Point of Return,” shows that suicide is an issue that affected us then and still affects us today. But there is hope and we all have a role to play.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, call 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).*